Woodworking Schools

Woodworking is a craft steeped in history. Despite many technological advances, skilled woodworkers are still highly sought-after craftsmen.

Woodworking Training and Advancement

Although much of the training in this field comes from on-the-job experience, there are many woodworking schools and trade schools that teach the time-honored craft of woodworking. Taking coursework such as wood technology and engineering, and production management at a woodworking school or trade school can better prepare you for more lucrative supervision and management positions. Many woodworking shops used highly sophisticated computer-numeric-controlled (CNC) machines to cut wood packages for assembly, and production classes at carpenter schools can help you quickly move into operator positions at a high-end shop.

Salary and Job Prospects for Woodworkers

About three-quarters of workers in this field are employed in manufacturing, with the bulk of jobs concentrated near forested areas. Job opportunities are good for skilled workers specializing in custom cabinetry, molding, stairs, and windows--but employment is sensitive to cyclical downturns in the economy. Hourly wages typically fall between $10 and $20 per hour.